Woodland owners in Kent face a High Court battle to save structures deemed ‘illegal’ by planning authorities.
The owners argue that the buildings are for “forestry purposes,” which planning law usually permits. However, Canterbury City Council disagrees, believing the buildings exceed what’s reasonable. Evidence cited included lighting, roads, and fencing, leading the council to see an “urbanisation” of the woods. They considered this undesirable development.
The council issued notices for six sites, demanding removal of the structures and land restoration. A planning inspector backed this decision on appeal. Now, three owners challenge the Secretary of State using the Town and Country Planning Act. The hearing is at the Royal Courts of Justice in London.
The cases relate to Beech Farm, Prioress, and Cook Woods. At issue is whether the enforcement notices are valid. Campaigners, who have fought Adisham woodland developments since 2021, call the High Court action “vexatious.” They hope the judge dismisses the developers’ applications.
Watch Over Adisham Woods expressed this hope. Members worry about dividing ancient woodland into plots and selling them off. They fear environmental damage and disturbed archaeology, as Adisham’s Oxenden Shaw Wood is now under different ownership.
One building was removed from Woodland Woods by its owner, John Horton. He removed a chalet and shipping container, claiming they were for forestry. He claims to have planted many trees, stating that other owners show responsible woodland management.